Japan's Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA) is looking to modernise its ageing fleet with Boeing 747-400 Special Freighters (SF) after signing a firm order for three new-build 747-400Fs.
The all-cargo carrier, which is part-owned by All Nippon Airways, is to add the three new General Electric CF6-powered 747-400Fs to its fleet in 2005 and 2006, replacing its single 747-100F and some of its older -200Fs. In addition to the -100F, NCA operates 10 -200Fs.
NCA also says it is conducting a review of the feasibility of adding 747-400 Special Freighters, which will be converted from passenger configuration.
Boeing recently launched its 747-400SF conversion programme, while Israel Aircraft Industries offers a rival conversion programme through its Bedek unit.
Source: Flight International
